Measles Cases Confirmed Among Immigration Detainees in Arizona

Pinal County health officials report three measles cases in federal custody, raising concerns about outbreaks in detention centers

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Three cases of measles have been confirmed among federal immigration detainees in Arizona, according to Pinal County health officials. The potential outbreak comes as migrants in other detention centers describe sick children and a lack of health care resources, and as measles cases are on the rise in the state and across the country.

Why it matters

Measles outbreaks in congregate settings like jails and prisons can spread quickly if vaccination rates are low and public health protocols are not followed. This raises concerns about the health and safety of both detainees and staff in immigration detention facilities.

The details

The Pinal County Public Health Services District confirmed the three measles cases, which are "associated with individuals in federal custody." Officials would not provide details on the infected individuals or the specific detention facilities involved, citing privacy concerns. However, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that at least one case was a Mexican citizen being held at the Florence Detention Center in central Arizona.

  • On January 16, Pinal County reported its first measles case in a decade.
  • As of January 27, Pinal County has confirmed a total of three measles cases among federal immigration detainees.

The players

Pinal County Public Health Services District

The local health department in Pinal County, Arizona that confirmed the measles cases among federal immigration detainees.

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency that confirmed at least one of the measles cases was a Mexican citizen being held at the Florence Detention Center in central Arizona.

Florence Detention Center

An immigration detention facility in central Arizona where at least one of the confirmed measles cases was located.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Officials with ICE did not immediately respond to The Arizona Republic on Jan. 27. At this time, the overall risk to the general public is low, according to the Pinal County Public Health Services District.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing public health challenges in immigration detention facilities, where outbreaks of communicable diseases like measles can spread rapidly if proper precautions are not taken. It underscores the need for robust medical care and vaccination protocols to protect the health and safety of both detainees and staff.